The Greatest Zombie Characters of All Time
For this poll we've created a list of the greatest zombies of all time, featuring zombies you know from movies, television, video games and more. Of course your favorite cartoon zombies are included, but this list doesn't only feature animated characters that can talk. If your favorite fictional zombie is missing, don't be salty- just add it to the list so that other people can vote for for it too!
This list has a variety of characters, like El Muerto and Zombie, in it. Who is the number one zombie that people just can't get enough of? Scroll down and find out who the masses voted for.- 1Frankenstein
Hailing from Mary Shelley's classic novel-turned-movie Frankenstein, The Monster is a prime example of a man-made, reanimated corpse. Assembled from various body parts, the creature has a captivating and unsettling appearance. While misunderstood and craving companionship, The Monster's tragic journey and unfortunate interactions with society make it a timeless zombie figure.
- 2DC Universe
Emerging from the pages of DC comics, Solomon Grundy is a formidable and imposing zombie with a tragic origin. Resurrected from the depths of Slaughter Swamp, he possesses extraordinary strength and surprising resilience. As one of the more recognizable undead characters, Grundy's distinctive poetry and brute force make him a memorable foe.
- 3Friday the 13th
The main antagonist from the Friday the 13th series, Jason Voorhees is a relentless, murderous figure with an undead twist. His trademark hockey mask and machete make him easily identifiable as a vengeful, seemingly unstoppable killer. As an iconic zombie character, Jason's supernatural resilience and insatiable desire for vengeance have terrorized generations of horror fans.
- 4
Ed
Shaun of the DeadAs a zombie counterpart to the titular character in Shaun of the Dead, Ed appears as the lovable yet troublesome best friend who is bitten and turned into a zombie. His crude sense of humor and devotion to his friends remain, even after his transformation. Though undead, Ed's comic relief and affectionate nature keep him close to audiences' hearts.
- 5
Bub
Day of the DeadThe intelligent and fascinating character from George A. Romero's Day of the Dead, Bub showcases unique traits that set him apart from your average undead ghoul. While still a flesh-hungry zombie, Bub retains shreds of his past human identity and manages to form a bond with the scientist studying him. Battling between his humanity and his undead urges, Bub blurs the line between friend and foe.
- 6Thriller
The King of Pop himself joined the ranks of zombies in his iconic "Thriller" music video, dancing his way into a horror legend. Dressed in a red and black leather jacket, Michael leads his undead counterparts with those signature moves. His memorable transformation into a werewolf-like zombie solidified him as a unique, engaging character in zombie lore.
More Michael Jackson
- Dig Deeper...The Best Michael Jackson Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...The 100+ Most Famous Virgo Celebrities Of All Time
- #4 of 554 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- 7Return of the Living Dead Part II
Featured in The Return of the Living Dead, Tarman is a grotesque and menacing zombie who plays a crucial role in the film's story. As his name suggests, his skin appears as oozing, decayed tar covering a skeletal frame. His chilling visuals and relentless pursuit of brains make Tarman an instantly terrifying and remarkable member of the undead.
- 8The Walking Dead
Originally a cunning and morally ambiguous figure in The Walking Dead, Merle Dixon succumbs to a zombie bite, leaving a lasting impact on fellow survivors. His character arc, both before and after his transformation, showcases a complexity that leaves viewers grappling with their perception of him. Merle's ultimate fate, as well as his complicated relationship with his brother, Daryl, make him an unforgettable and haunting character.
More Merle Dixon- #18 of 60 onThe Best 'Walking Dead' Characters, Ranked
- #523 of 843 onThe Greatest TV Characters Of All Time
- #47 of 220 onThe Best TV Villains Of All Time
- 9
Billy Butcherson
Hocus PocusThe bumbling, lovable zombie from the classic film Hocus Pocus, Billy Butcherson is accidentally resurrected to serve as the witches' pawn. Though initially villainous, Billy's clumsy charm and eventual heroism redeem him in the eyes of the audience. As a family-friendly zombie character, Billy skillfully blends horror with comedic elements while remaining endearing.
- 10iZombie
In iZombie, Liv Moore is a witty and resourceful zombie protagonist who helps solve crimes by consuming the brains of murder victims. Her unique ability to inherit the deceased's memories, skills, and traits makes her a valuable ally to law enforcement. Liv's journey as a functional, self-aware zombie emphasizes the constant struggle between her remaining humanity and her undead nature.
- 11
Ghoulia Yelps
Monster HighFrom the Monster High franchise, Ghoulia Yelps is a stylish, turquoise-haired teenage girl who happens to be a zombie. Described as the smartest ghoul in school, she communicates through moans and groans while proving to be a valuable and kind friend. Ghoulia showcases an unconventional side of zombie culture by emphasizing intelligence, loyalty, and creativity.
- 12Warm Bodies
As the lead character in the novel and film Warm Bodies, R represents a unique twist on the traditional undead figure. His curiosity and self-awareness separate him from other zombie characters, with the power of love ultimately transforming him. R's romantic development, combined with his introspection and humor, make him a memorable undead protagonist.
- 13The Walking Dead
A character from The Walking Dead, young Sophia Peletier's transformation into a zombie leaves a painful and unsettling impact on the other survivors. Her fate serves as a turning point in the series while highlighting the harsh, unforgiving nature of a post-apocalyptic world. Sophia's role as an innocent child turned undead reveals the true horror of the zombie condition.
- 14
Murphy
ZIn Z Nation, Murphy is a unique human-zombie hybrid who has gained special abilities after being treated with an experimental serum. Both powerful and cunning, his character arc morphs from a reluctant savior to a complex and manipulative leader. Murphy's blend of humanity and zombie traits makes him an engaging and unpredictable character in a world full of the undead.
- 15Night of the Living Dead
A character from George A. Romero's classic Night of the Living Dead, Karen Cooper's transformation into a zombie is simultaneously tragic and horrifying. Her metamorphosis from a sickly young girl to a flesh-eating ghoul serves as a chilling reminder of the horrifying potential within the genre. Karen is a haunting figure that continues to resonate with audiences.
- 16Game of Thrones
The fearsome and mysterious White Walker from Game of Thrones is an undead force that drives the narrative and incites fear among all inhabitants of Westeros. Their icy blue eyes and chilling, almost ethereal appearance command attention. As formidable antagonists with the power to raise the dead, the White Walker presents a chilling threat that underscores the series' intense conflict.
- 17
Randall Skeffington
Ugly AmericansOriginating from the adult animated series Ugly Americans, Randall Skeffington is a zombie roommate trying to navigate his everyday life despite his undead status. His transformation into a more typical, decaying zombie creates a sympathetic and engaging character. Randall's relatable struggles and undying (pun intended) loyalty to his friends make him an entertaining and charming addition to the genre.
- 18
Sheila Hammond
Santa Clarita DietAs a protagonist in the Netflix series Santa Clarita Diet, Sheila Hammond becomes a member of the undead after experiencing a bizarre transformation. Struggling to maintain a sense of normalcy, she attempts to balance her new appetite for human flesh with life as a suburban mom. Her wit and resourcefulness and her loving relationship with her family provide a heartwarming and unique perspective on the world of undead characters.
- 19
Pete
Shaun of the DeadPete, from Shaun of the Dead, stands out as a memorable zombie character in the annals of undead lore. With his initial stoic demeanor and disapproving glances towards Shaun's slacker lifestyle, Pete's transformation into an insatiable flesh-eater is both shocking and darkly comical. His unforgettable role serves as a perfect example of how even the most seemingly mundane characters can become menacing figures once infected by the relentless zombie curse.
- 20DC Universe
Transforming from the second Robin to the vengeful Red Hood, Jason Todd's journey took a dark turn when he was temporarily depicted as a zombie in the Batman universe. His skeletal visage and ravenous appearance remind readers of his gruesome demise at the hands of the Joker. Jason Todd's brief stint as an undead character serves as an eerie reminder of the tragedy that befell him.
More Jason Todd- #104 of 305 onThe Best Comic Book Villains
- #12 of 189 onThe 100+ Best DC Comics Heroes Of All Time, According To Fans
- #25 of 95 onThe Best Batman Villains Ever
- 21Iron Maiden
As the iconic mascot for the Iron Maiden band, Eddie the Head appears in various forms throughout the band's album artwork, with his zombie-like features being particularly striking. His gruesome appearance and wide range of personas have made Eddie a recognizable figure in the world of rock and metal. Taking on countless roles since his 1980 debut, Eddie remains an enduring and grotesque emblem of Iron Maiden's undead legacy.
- 22
M
Warm BodiesOne of the supporting characters in Warm Bodies, M is a friend to protagonist R and eventually undergoes a similar transformation. Intellectual beneath his rough exterior, M proves that even zombies can learn to care for others. His burgeoning hope for humanity and relatable struggles propel M above the typical undead typecast, making him uniquely appealing.
- 23
Valentina
Cemetery ManA character from Cemetery Man, Valentina is a fascinating female zombie who falls victim to the rampant undead infestation. Despite her transformation, she manages to retain a level of beauty and allure, drawing her former lover to her side. Valentina's character challenges audiences' preconceptions of the undead while adding a new layer of depth to the film's narrative.
- 24Marvel Universe
Appearing in Marvel Comics' stories, Zombie, also known as Simon Garth, is a tragic figure who regains consciousness following his zombification. Faced with the horror of his own undead existence, he uses his newfound supernatural abilities to battle evil and protect the innocent. Navigating the complexities of being a reanimated corpse, Zombie offers an unconventional and thought-provoking perspective within the vast Marvel universe.
- 25
Lisa Addison
Resident EvilIn the terrifying world of Resident Evil, Lisa Addison's transformation from a promising Umbrella Corporation researcher to a grotesque experiment gone wrong is both tragic and horrifying. Her disfigured appearance, coupled with a haunting scream, makes her character unforgettable. Lisa's role in the Resident Evil saga serves as a stark reminder of the darker side of scientific exploration, especially as it pertains to the undead.
- 26
She
Cemetery ManIn the cult classic horror film Cemetery Man, She is a beautiful, enigmatic woman who succumbs to a zombie bite. Toward the end of the movie, She bites the protagonist, Francesco, creating a twisted and tragic love story. The character of She reevaluates the concept of zombie attraction, intriguing viewers with the depth and complexity of undead interpersonal relationships.
- 27
Number Nine
Land of the DeadIn George A. Romero's post-apocalyptic Land of the Dead, Number Nine is a unique, self-aware zombie who proves the undead can learn and adapt to their surroundings. Nine's ability to strategize and lead heighten the threat posed by the reanimated against the dwindling human population. Number Nine's intelligence and resourcefulness push the boundaries of traditional zombie depictions.
- 28
Reg Shoe
DiscworldAs a self-aware, thoughtful character in Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, Reg Shoe is an undead activist who pursues equal rights for zombies. With intelligence, wit, and an intrinsic understanding of politics, he establishes the Fresh Start Club to combat discrimination. Reg Shoe's relentless quest for equality highlights the potential for growth and acceptance even in the realm of the undead.
- 29
Windle Poons
DiscworldAn undead character from Terry Pratchett's Discworld series, Windle Poons is a wizard who finds himself reanimated after his death. His wit and intelligence contradict the image of a mindless zombie and make Windle Poons a fascinating character. As an elderly, undead professed "living impaired," he adds depth and complexity to the world of zombie characters.
- 30
Andre Toulon
Puppet Master II, Puppet MasterIn the Puppetmaster film series, Andre Toulon becomes a zombie puppet master controlling his reanimated puppets for his evil intentions. His manipulative abilities, coupled with his sinister appearance, make him an eerie and unsettling character. The concept of Toulon retaining his intellect after becoming a zombie highlights the chilling possibilities of cognizant undead beings.
